In a major push for sustainable urban mobility, the City of Cape Town has unveiled a draft Walking and Cycling Strategy aimed at repositioning these modes of transport as primary, safe and accessible options, reports Cape {town} Etc.
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The public is encouraged to share feedback on this ambitious plan, which is intended to shape Cape Town’s transport future and support long-term investments in walking and cycling infrastructure. Comments are open until 14 December 2024.
As Cape Town’s population is set to reach an estimated 5.8 million by 2040, the City faces growing pressure to implement a more equitable and sustainable transport system. Historically, Cape Town’s focus has been on private vehicle infrastructure, leading to traffic congestion, air pollution, and a high rate of traffic-related accidents.
‘To maintain Cape Town’s vibrancy, we need to shift away from this car-dependent model,’ said Rob Quintas, mayoral committee member for Urban Mobility. ‘Walking and cycling must play a more prominent role in our urban landscape, as they provide essential links to public transport while enhancing quality of life and reducing environmental impact.’
The draft strategy proposes a comprehensive redesign of the City’s approach to transport planning, emphasising the need for safe, continuous pedestrian and cycling routes. This would include creating dedicated cycling corridors, highly pedestrianised areas, and improved walkways around major transit hubs. While the city has made strides in providing cycling and pedestrian infrastructure, Quintas acknowledged that gaps remain, especially in underserved neighbourhoods. Lower-income households rely heavily on walking, while cycling offers an affordable, healthy transportation alternative, though both modes currently face safety and accessibility challenges.
The strategy also aims to increase the City’s connectivity by addressing incomplete and fragmented pathways, often cited as major barriers to adopting active mobility. By investing in high-demand cycling routes and prioritising safe zones around busy transport interchanges, the City hopes to make walking and cycling the preferred, practical options for everyday travel.
An essential part of this plan includes enhancing public awareness around pedestrian and cyclist safety. ‘Our goal is to create a people-first city by reforming how we prioritise transport, with a long-term vision to build a network that supports walking, cycling, and public transport above private vehicles,’ Quintas added.
Cape Town residents can view and comment on the draft Walking and Cycling Strategy at www.capetown.gov.za/haveyoursay. This is an opportunity for the community to influence Cape Town’s urban mobility landscape and to ensure that it reflects the needs of a diverse and growing population.
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Picture: City of Cape Town
